.

I found some cute vintage Halloween photographs of old actresses:

Veronica Lake, circa 1940s

Lillian Wells

Ann Ruth

Nancy Carroll, 1933

Last night I came across a post from a young woman struggling to find an appropriate wedding gown.  I’ve decided that next week is BRIDAL WEEK. Tell an engaged friend…

And don’t forget that 40 Days For Life ends this weekend. If you can’t make it out to an abortion mill, please pray for the lives of the unborn and for the work of the pro-lifers.

Be safe and have fun!

~Rebecca

Note to jewelry designers: THE MODEL DOES NOT HAVE TO BE NAKED TO SELL YOUR PRODUCT!!!

There was an excellent essay published on CatholicCulture.org about Pope Benedict XVI and the role of women in the church. As you may know, the Bible Synod is wrapping up, but what you may not know is that there were a number of women, some of them quite young, in attendance.

Some gems from the essay:

…[B16] oversaw the publication of the CDF document On the Collaboration of Men and Women. Long convinced that women suffer the most from the confusion of gender roles in the modern world, he helped to shape a document that would clarify the unique nature of women while at the same time affirming that women have a role to play in every aspect of society. Benedict thus appears positioned to take the conversation on women in the Church to the next phase.

In reading his encyclicals and other writings, I don’t see why certain Catholics have such hostility toward the Holy Father. He is a brilliant man, and like the writer implies, understands the problems we women face in this modern age.

Those who identify themselves as conservative are often quick to dismiss feminism. One may not agree with the conclusions of feminist thinkers, but this in no way reduces the significance of the questions they have addressed.

Very true. Once I get some more time I’m going to write a different post on feminism and the Catholic woman. I’ve seen websites for “ladies against feminism” and such, which I think is a slightly misguided viewpoint. Now that I’m thinking about it, I may start another thread entirely unpacking JP II’s teachings on the feminine genius. But more on that later.

Women religious from around the world, most particularly from the western part, addressed their role within the Church and asked for more power. Mother Teresa responded simply that these women needed to fall in love with their spouse, who is Jesus.

Good ‘ol Mother Teresa, a true feminine model for us all.

When you have some time, I would highly suggest sitting down and reading the entire essay. You can find it here.

~Rebecca

As an aside, you’d think PP workers would be smarter with the questions they answer.

Brian Pessaro wrote a heart-felt article on Godspy about why he prays the rosary, even though it isn’t easy.

Brian writes that he used to struggle with pornography, but after only praying the rosary one time, his addiction “vanished that first night.” I too had a similar experience with the beaded sword:

My freshman year of college I liked this guy…I mean I REALLY liked this guy…to the point of dropping things when he walked into the room.

I had known him in high school while I was still in my “bad girl” phase pre-conversion, and during that time he was a great guy. One night while on retreat I decided to “investigate” so to speak to see if he was still the nice guy I had known years beforehand. We were talking about college and relationships with a group of people from one of our classes when he so casually told me he wasn’t looking for a relationship, but rather “hook ups.”

I was totally heartbroken…and yet I was still attracted to him too. I asked God to take away my desires, but weeks later I was still getting the clammy hands and nervous giggles.

One day I decided to go to one of my campus’ chapels to pray. I was about to leave when I passed the statue of the Blessed Mother. I had never prayed there before. I don’t know why, but I dropped to my knees and prayed a rosary…which I hadn’t done for at least 5 years. I didn’t even have a rosary with me, but somehow I remembered exactly how to pray one.

I asked the Blessed Mother for her intercession. I knew my attraction was unhealthy and I wanted to be rid of it. Could she help me? 

The next day I saw “him” as I was walking to class. He stopped to say hello, which would usually let out dozens of butterflies in my stomach. I said “hey” and kept walking. I didn’t realize it until later that night, but my attraction had vanished into thin air, much like Brian’s addiction to pornography.

I have been dedicated to praying the rosary ever since.

On the topic of staying chaste, my secret is daily mass, rosaries, and working out 4-5 times a week in the gym…it’s the prescription I recommend to all, male and female. LOL. 

Now go to talk to your Mother!

~Rebecca

I wrote in an earlier post that Selena Gomez is the spokesperson for UNICEF’s Trick-or-Treat Campaign.

You may ask, what does it mean to be an “Official Modestia Chick?” #1 it means you love God, #2 it means you serve Him by loving others!

She’s…just…so…adorable…

Take a look at the Modest Apparel category as I have added a number of new links, my favorites being Tweed & Hush.

Tweed has a number of very cute, modest, and moderately priced pieces:

I’m also in love with Boutique Hush, which in addition to having a very modest selection of apparel has a great line of handbags:

I’ve also added a number of plus size links, my favorites of which being Lola & Gigi and Saffrona.

Lola & Gigi has a great selection of designer plus size apparel and premium denim.

Saffrona (which also includes smaller sizes) specializes in designing dresses in eco-friendly fabrics.

I’d also like to make a plea for more feedback. I get a lot of hits on this site, but very little comments and emails. What are you liking about the site? What would you like to see change? Any and all comments and suggestions are always welcome.

The AIDS Foundation hosted the 15th Annual Dream Halloween Benefit last weekend:

Angela Bassett and her twins Bronwyn & Slater

Jason Priestly, his wife Naomi, and their daughter Ava

Jada & Willow Pinkett-Smith (I’m really starting to love them.)

Kim Fields, her hubby, and son

Other celebs have been photographed out with their families at the pumpkin patch:

Tori Spelling

Marcia Cross

And Official Modestia Chick Ali Landry was snapped picking up some pumpkins with her daughter Estela at a local grocery store:

Cuteness.

Celebrities

The Olympics have been over for forever, but I still want to highlight Olypmian Lopez Lomong, a devout Catholic who was one of the infamous “Lost Boys of Sudan.” Lomong was taken in by an American family and eventually became the running superstar that he is today. You can check out his website here.

It looks like Ali Landry is officially off maternity leave. She’s been hosting a lot of events lately but will be featured on the Nov. 19th episode of Criminal Minds on CBS.

Soccer star Chase Hilgenbrink has decided to enter into the priesthood:

…is it wrong for me to say he’s REALLY cute? On second thought, don’t answer that.

In political news…

Reggaetone star Daddy Yankee endorsed John McCain about a month ago…I have to say my jaw dropped when I read this…

…Eduardo Verastegui has also endorsed McCain for president…I circulated some of the Latino gossip blogs and people are not too happy about it…*blank stare of surprise*…did you hear about the one where his photo was torn up at a press conference?

Actor John Voight has also come under fire for his endorsement of Sen. McCain. His new film Pride and Glory made over $6 million over the weekend debuting at #5 at the box office. Has anyone seen it yet? The reviews are starkly mixed….

In new music, check out 19-year-old singer Marie Miller:

She’s performing at Catholic Underground in Connecticut soon…I’m going to pass this along to the LA core team.

TV/Films

An American Carol is still trudging along at the box office having now grossed almost $7 million dollars…which is a far cry from its $20 million dollar budget…

…by the way I saw Max Payne over the weekend and save your money because it was baaaad…the trailer looked kind of cool with those weird flying demon things in it but believe me when I say it was lame. Why Mark Whalberg, why? First that stupid tree movie now this?

In more positive news…

A Man for All Seasons has hit broadway and is getting good reviews…

The screenwriter of Basic Instinct has come back home to Rome and has written a book about faith…

There’s a new movie in development based on the life of the Blessed Mother. Mary, Mother of Christ is under MGM and being co-written by the same writer as the Passion of the Christ…oh the anticipation…

An Italian media company is producing a a kids cartoon show based on the life of Opus Dei founder St. Jose Maria Escriva…

I’m pitching my Left to Tell adaptation tomorrow morning…I couldn’t get the rights to any other books so I’m cutting my losses and going with this one.

Catholic Media

The Podcast Awards are going on…go vote for your favorite shows! I guess what I really mean is go vote for your favorite SQPN shows as I don’t know of any better ones…

Pilgrims is still in post. I’ve decided not to do a web premiere because of some interest in the series from a Catholic media outlet. If I can’t get a deal going then I will go back to the web premiere…but let’s pray that I don’t. Look for the series in the spring of next year.

…There is a new grassroots movement called the Hollywood Project. Check it out.

In non-Catholic news, my deepest condolences to former American Idol contestant and Academy Award Winner Jennifer Hudson and her family. JHud’s mother and brother were found shot dead last week, and yesterday it was reported that her kidnapped 7-year-old nephew was found dead in an SUV in Chicago. Hudson’s brother-in-law is in custody for the suspected murders. It’s an absolutely unbelievable story and my heart is with her and her family.

Pax Christi, Rebecca.

Last week I changed my Facebook status to say:

“Rebecca is looking for a Halloween costume that won’t make her look like a porn star.”

My cousin commented on it wishing me good luck in that endeavor. I laughed because I knew she was joking…but at the same time it wasn’t all that funny.

There’s a line in the movie Mean Girls were Cady says Halloween is the one night a year a girl can dress up like a “total slut.” I don’t like calling other girls sluts, but that line is true. Last year I was out in West Hollywood where some girls my friends and I knew came up to us to talk. They were all dressed as vampires in black bras, red panties, capes, and horns. I’m not joking.

I see costumes in the same way that I see bridal wear—despite the fact that it is a special day modesty should not be lost. I thought about being a “celebutante” to make fun of the ridiculousness that is teen Hollywood, but I decided to save that particular dress for my birthday dinner (which was what I bought it for in the first place.)

Instead I’ve decided to be a 40’s college student. Not the most creative idea, but the outfit is really cute…and I’m covered!

I hope you have a fun, safe, modest Halloween!

Former America’s Next Top Model Contestant Bianca Golden recently shot a photoshoot for famed fashion photographer Derek Blanks. Check out the beautiful shots:

Fabulous.

I saw this really adorable photo of R&B Singer Keyshia Cole out at some party and all I could think was, “Girl, you forgot to button your top button!”

Tops like Keyshia’s would be modest if we just took a little extra care….

Don’t forget that top button ladies!

1. A pair of uggs
Because Australian slippers are hot American fashion….I was baffled to learn while I was in Australia over the summer that Uggs to Australians are similar to fuzzy bunny slippers to Americans. But I still think they’re cute and therefore they make the list! 

2. A Linen Scarf
Depending on where you are in the world, you may want to invest in a cable knit scarf.  It’s still hot in LA, so I’ve been wearing scarves made of lighter fabrics like linen and cotton. Forever21 has a colorful selection.

 3. A Cozy hat/beanie
Try the random hat store in your local mall…you know…the one with the wigs in the front window.:P
 
4. Another pair of shades
…Because sunglasses are not only a summer fashion. Lulu’s has a great CHEAP selection.

5. A plaid button down shirt.
Plaid is really in style this season.

6. A peacoat
For the colder nights…

7. A Little Black Dress
For those last minute parties…

8. 3/4 sleeves
It’s not too hot, yet it’s not really cold yet either. 3/4 sleeves on a dress or a top is a great solution for fall weather.

9. A cardigan
Ponchos are also back in style, so you can pull that one out as well if you don’t want to wear a cardigan.

10. A leather handbag
I have an aversion to patent leather, but a sturdy well-made leather bag is always in style and can be used in just about every situation.

Top ~ Target, $8.99

Sweater ~ Target, $24.99

Skirt ~ Charlotte Russe, $24.99

Tights ~ Target, $5.99

Shoes ~ Payless, 24.99

Jada Pinkett Smith and her daughter Willow are on the November cover of Cookie Magazine:

Super cute.

Victoria Beckham is also on the cover of Vogue India:

I still can’t help but think of her as Posh Spice.

Anna Friel

Maria Menounos

Kate Beckinsale

Mischa Barton

Kate Hudson & Liv Tyler

____________________________________

Kerry Washington @ the BET Awards

Julissa at BET’s Real Life Divas Event

Ashley Tisdale at US Weekly’s Hot in Hollywood Event

Blake Lively

Nia Long

Alicia Silverston…she still looks exactly the same after all these years…

Mariah Carey & Chrisette Michelle at the launch of Le Metier De Beaute Cosmetics

Thandie Newton

Catholic Disney Actress Selena Gomez has designed a line of t-shirts for Palomita Clothing to benefit the Palomita Education Fund, which aims to help Latinos get into college.

Selena said:

It was a rewarding experience to design a t-shirt for the Palomita Education foundation which is dedicated to improving the lives of Latinos through education. It is great to be part of such a wonderful charity.

I’ve decided to make Selena an OFFICIAL MODESTIA CHICK as she is a talented young lady (who wears a chastity ring!) and is engaged in all kinds of humanitarian work. She is the spokesperson for UNICEF’s Trick-or-Treat Campaign and participated in a fashion show for St. Jude’s Hospital last weekend in Beverly Hills:

Check out her line for Palomita:

Sorry I haven’t made a chastity post in a while, but I’ve had midterms for the last two weeks!

Boundless Webzine, pretty much my favorite non-Catholic Christian resource, devoted a blog post to some of the many questions women should ask while “vetting” a man for marriage:

Spiritual

• Will he be the spiritual leader of your home?
• When you share with him your deepest spiritual thoughts, does he relate?
• Do his life and conversation reveal that he is truly connected with the Savior?
• Do his goals in life show that he wants to please the Lord above all?
• Are his goals in life compatible with yours?

Emotional

• How does he handle anger?
• Does he demonstrate emotional stability?

Mental

• Do you respect him intellectually?

Financial

• Does he have a gambling addiction?
• Does he have a spending addiction?
• How does he handle finances (budgeting, what he spends money on, tithing)?
• Is he a diligent, dependable worker?
• Does he make enough money to support you and future children?
• Does he expect you to work outside the home, or does he expect you to stay home with the kids?

These are honest questions, and I think it goes into the overall issue of having a “list” of sorts for a male partner. Some of the commenters did not take to this idea too well, calling it judgemental.

I take the opposite view. The church teaches that marriage is a special union, so special in fact that it cannot be broken according to the teachings of Christ (check out Matt. 19:1-11). But in order for a Catholic marriage to be in fact marriage (now we’re getting into the theology of annulments) each partner must be “free” in partaking in this union:

CCC#1638 “From a valid marriage arises a bond between the spouses which by its very nature is perpetual and exclusive; furthermore, in a Christian marriage the spouses are strengthened and, as it were, consecrated for the duties and the dignity of their state by a special sacrament.”

CCC# 1625 ….”to be free” means:

- not being under constraint;
- not impeded by any natural or ecclesiastical law

CCC#1632 So that the “I do” of the spouses may be a free and responsible act and so that the marriage covenant may have solid and lasting human and Christian foundations, preparation for marriage is of prime importance.”

Say your boyfriend who you would like to become your fiancee has an addiction to pornography…that you don’t know about. How would you know? You don’t live with him (or at least you shouldn’t) and pornography is not usually a subject that comes up over the dinner table.

If you are in a serious Christian relationship for the purpose of marriage, it’s okay to ask if 1) he is addicted to pornography and/or 2) if he has ever struggled with pornography. As a matter of fact, I would say you BETTER ask if you want that “I do” to be free. I have watched pornography, adultery, and lust destroy perfectly “Catholic” marriages and relationships, some within my own family. It’s not to say that if your BF has struggled with this you should not marry him, but you do need to know for the sake of your future. Marriages must begin in freedom to grow in Christ.

The same goes for things like life goals and finances. I couldn’t imagine marrying a man who did not volunteer as much as I do, and a man who wants to spend hoards of time with his partner on the weekends probably wouldn’t like me much unless he wanted to spend that time with me out on Skid Row or in front of an abortion clinic. My life goals revolve around service of the church.

I’ve read many times that finances are a major source of tension for newlyweds. If you are a shop-a-holic or a compulsive shopper, it might not be a good idea for you to marry a frugal accountant. (If you are either of these things, email me as I have some advice for you.)

Now these are questions to ask, but what about having a list of requirements? The first time I ever heard of this I too thought it was a bit judgmental. But when I heard that chastity speaker Crystalina Evert had a list, I warmed up to the idea. Crystalina had a list of over 50 things she wanted in her husband, and found that her husband fulfilled every single one.

My list has exactly 50 items and includes things like my future partner being Catholic, pro-life, slow to anger, etc. Please note that there is no “tall, dark, and handsome” on the list! LOL. For this reason I am a fan of having a list. I don’t think there is anything wrong about knowing what you want and asking God for it. When I wrote my list I prayed about it and offered it up to God.

So now I ask, do you have a list?

Pax Christi, Rebecca.

Click the images for a larger more legible size.

The very talented actress and singer Caitlin Crosby was at Catholic UndergroundLA this weekend.

Caitlin just signed a contract with Atlantic Records and has been recording every day for weeks so her voice would only allow her to sing a few songs, but she was marvelous nevertheless.

Check out her song “Generation” which I hope and pray will be a single.